International Atomic Energy Agency believes that if Iran wants to have its nuclear program, it must negotiate it with the US, the Head of Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) states as he describes the West's hindrances to Iran's peaceful program.

The Big Picture:

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has provided several reports indicating Iran's compliance with its safeguards commitments. Tehran has granted IAEA additional access and surveillance capabilities, allowing inspectors to visit and inspect nuclear sites in Iran. 

 

What He Is Saying:

Speaking at Iran's Chamber of Commerce meeting on Monday, Mohammad Eslami says the US has applied pressure on Iran for about 30 years through various means, including attacks and assassinations. He added that Iranian governments have negotiated for 20 years, resulting in the JCPOA.

 

Go deeper:

The hindrance dates back to 50 years ago, before the victory of the Islamic Revolution, when the US Congress, passed a law "Section 123 of the US Atomic Energy Act" in 1954, to maintain its dominance over the nuclear activity of other countries. The law says:

  • US consent is required for enrichment or reprocessing of transferred or produced nuclear materials.
  • Separate negotiations are needed for agreements permitting enrichment and reprocessing using U.S.-provided material.
  • Use of heavy water in nuclear reactors is subject to nonproliferation criteria and safeguards.

 

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